Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a fairly common condition that disfigures and can destroy the toenail. Generally speaking, the big toe and the little toe are the nails that are most likely to be affected. This condition is caused by any one of the many types of fungi that grow in the moist warm environment in your shoes. As they grow, they invade and feed on the protein (keratin) that makes up the hard surface of the toenails.
Toenail fungus is rare in children but the incidence increases with age and it is estimated that nearly half of entire United States population having at least one toe affected by the time they are 70 years of age. If a reputable treatment is used immediately following the infection, the treatment time is often reduced and you can cure toenail fungus if you are diligent and regular during this process.
Wearing tight-fitting shoes and layers of nail polish increases the risk of developing nail fungus. In addition, simple wear and tear of the skin around that feet can invite skin fungal conditions that can then turn into toenail fungus infections. It can also be spread person-to-person in public areas, such as locker rooms and showers. Having a chronic condition that affects your circulation, such as diabetes, or HIV also increases your risk.
The initial symptoms begin with the affected nail becoming discolored (yellow or brown) and then eventually thick and/or overgrown. If the infection becomes particularly intrenched, there may be a foul-smelling debris under the nail. The nail can eventually crumble and completely fall off, or it may become so thick that it is very painful to wear shoes.
Toenail fungus often becomes a chronic condition, and if it is not painful, many people do not get treatment. However, people with chronic illness like diabetes should see a doctor if they notice changes in their nails as it may be an indication of more serious problems. If the nail becomes very thick and makes wearing shoes and walking painful, you should see a medical professional.
One of the most important aspects of treating a nail fungus infection is to begin treating it at the onset of infection. Once any of the above conditions are
detected, the nail in question should be immediately treated with a quality toenail fungus treatment. We suggest using Funginix, our powerful and extremely effective topical solution. Treatment with Funginix has proven to be an effective treatment for people in different stages of infection and is a very powerful yet easy to use treatment.